Dricus du Plessis has certainly become a talking point in the UFC’s middleweight division. The South African cuts an imposing figure and has started making a name for himself. Having made a flawless start to his run in the UFC, the sky is seemingly the limit for du Plessis.
Previously, Dricus announced himself on the scene with a vicious KO of Markus Perez. Having fought mainly in promotions like the Extreme Fighting Championship (EFC) and the Konfrontacja Sztuk Walki (KSW), Dricus was seen as a prospect. As such, the 29-year-old kept putting up great performances against some of the toughest contenders in the division.
Notably, Dricus disposed of Trevin Giles, Brad Tavares, and Darren Till and made Derek Brunson consider retiring. Thus, the South African was seen as the next big contender in the division. Whilst, a lot of people still have their doubts, especially about his gas tank, “Still Knocks” has shown nothing but promise. Interestingly, his comments on African champions further helped to put him in the limelight.
Following his win over Derek Brunson at UFC 285, there was a lot of talk as to who Dricus will fight next. Moreover, following his win at UFC 287, Israel Adesanya threatened to drag du Plessis’ ‘carcass across South Africa.’ Although the champ did not name him, it was clear who his threat was intended for..
Dricus du Plessis’ Nose Injury
Recently, Dana White revealed some of the fights going down at the upcoming UFC events. As such, #6 ranked Dricus is scheduled to take on #2 ranked Robert Whittaker at UFC 290. Whilst many would have liked to see Dricus get tested by a top 5 name, he is sent straight to The Reaper instead. Although many feel that Whittaker is the favorite, it is a great opportunity for du Plessis to make his case.
Additionally, Dricus has recently undergone surgery, allowing him to breathe better. According to his head coach, Morne Visser, Dricus was fighting with only 8% oxygen intake for the last three years. Taking to Instagram, Visser provided much detail about the situation.
He added, “Dricus has been crucified by many watching him fighting in the UFC for his gas tank. He has just had a nose surgery which was suppose to happen 3 years ago. Total oxygen intake threw both his nostrils of about 8% for the last 3 years”.
Further, Visser adds that Dricus fought 3 times in 7 months, and dominated his opponent, despite his oxygen problems. As such, Vissier also issued a warning for Adesanya, “JUST IMAGINE WHAT HE IS GOING TO DO TO YOU the NEW ZEALANDER with a full gas tank.” According to Dricus himself, his nose has been broken for years, meaning he can only partially breathe out of one nose.
Interestingly, many have questioned how Dricus is even able to breathe with 8% oxygen. However, it appears as though he is finally past his nasal woes and will be in better shape moving forward. But with Whittaker awaiting him at UFC 290, it will be no easy feat by any means. Will ‘oxygenated’ Dricus reign supreme? Only time will tell.